Vol. 563 No. 4
261 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Irish Embassy in Prague has received information from the Czech authorities regarding the decision to refuse an appeal against an extradition order to Germany by a person (details supplied). [8368/03]
262 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Irish Embassy in Prague has been informed in regard to the alleged breach of international law by the Czech authorities in their refusal of an appeal by a person (details supplied) against an extradition order to Germany. [8369/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 262 together.
I am aware of the case of this individual, who was arrested in Prague Airport on 6 December on foot of an international arrest warrant issued in Germany.
The case was heard by the Prague Municipal Court on 13 February, which was attended by an official from the Irish embassy. The court's decision was that extradition to Germany was lawful. A subsequent appeal, on 13 March, upheld this decision and the matter is now with the Czech Minister for Justice. The Czech Minister may now decide to proceed with the extradition, or may decide to refer the case to the Supreme Court of the Czech Republic for further legal decision.
The embassy in Prague continues to provide all appropriate consular assistance and has visited this person in prison regularly since his detention. As the Deputy will appreciate it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the substance of this case.
